Crypto currency scam hitting the Shuswap with fraudsters claiming to be federal workers

Apr 10, 2026 | 10:51 AM

SALMON ARM, B.C. — Salmon Arm RCMP are warning the public of a crypto currency scam after a woman fell victim and lost nearly $12,000.

According to a police report from Wednesday (April 8), a woman received a phone call from someone claiming to be the “deputy in Ottawa” who told her they had evidence that she had committed identity theft.

In a news release issued Friday, RCMP say the scammers demanded the woman to prove their identity to clear their name by opening a crypto currency wallet and depositing cash into a Bitcoin ATM. The woman was out $11,900.

In another instance on Thursday, a man reported that he received a call from someone claiming to be with the “Government of Canada Crown Attorney Office” and claimed his identity was being used for crime. The man also received an email from someone part of the scam who was claiming to be from the federal government.

RCMP say the man was told to withdraw cash and deposit it into a Bitcoin ATM and not tell anyone. However, he reported the incident to police instead.

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“There are resources available for residents to familiarize themselves with the many types of scams there are,” Cst. Andrew Hodges says. “A general rule of thumb is if you receive unsolicited phone calls, text messages, or emails from anyone requesting money, personal information, or asking you to sign into any sort of account, it should be treated as a scam. These scams often play on your emotions by appearing time sensitive and push you to make quick decisions. Contact your local police before taking any action if you are unsure.”

Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted by a scam is asked to contact Salmon Arm RCMP at 250-832-6044 or their local police detachment.

Residents can learn more about the red flags to watch for in the most common types of scams, at the BC RCMP Frauds and Scams, Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or the Competition Bureau of Canada.

by Aaron Schulze

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Crypto currency scam hitting the Shuswap with fraudsters claiming to be federal workers

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